Being alert one of your best defenses

Published 8:00 pm, Wednesday, September 25, 2002

We have a deer herd that's 2 million strong, so there are bound to be collisions with motorists. But according to AAA of Michigan, car-deer crashes rack up a cost of at least $130 million a year. The average crash results in about $2,000 in damage.

In 2001 alone, AAA reports, close to 67,000 car-deer accidents were reported. But the agency estimates the total number of crashes that occurred to be more like 80,000. In Huron County, close to 1,100 car accidents involved deer for 2002 figures released by AAA. And while we often point to the damages and costs incurred because of car-deer crashes, 11 people lost their lives in such accidents last year.

Deer play an important part of Michigan's rich hunting tradition and bring many hunters to our area. Living with them, and being aware of their habits and patterns can help avoid crashes.

Most car-deer accidents happen between dusk and dawn on two-lane roads, like the ones found here in Huron County. But did you know that the worst accidents happen because motorists swerve to avoid deer in the roadway? It's a natural response, we know. But remaining calm, keeping the car straight, and applying firm and steady pressure to the brake is your best bet. Trying to go around deer often leads to going into a ditch, hitting a tree or another car, leading to even more dangerous scenarios.

Of course, the old common sense standbys still apply to drivers when talking about car-deer accidents. Staying alert, especially at dawn and dusk, wearing your seat belt and being aware of your surroundings often can be your best defense.